The three-team blockbuster trade that sent Mookie Betts and David Price to the Los Angeles Dodgers for multiple prospects could reportedly be in some danger of falling through.
According to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman, concerns regarding medicals for Minnesota Twins top pitching prospect Brusdar Graterol are forcing teams to reconfigure a deal. While all three organizations hope the deal is ultimately completed, some involved are now suggesting it could fall apart.
Boston received outfielder Alex Verdugo from the Dodgers as part of the deal and he passed the team’s physical examination. However, the Dodgers sent pitcher Kenta Maeda to the Twins in exchange for them sending Graterol to the Red Sox.
The Red Sox are seeking more compensation after an examination determined Graterol’s arm likely can’t hold up to the workload of being a starting pitcher. The 21-year-old underwent Tommy John surgery in 2016 and missed significant time this season with a right shoulder impingement.
Boston reportedly ate at least half of the $96 million David Price is owed over the next three seasons. As a result of the financial hit and trading Betts, the front office now wants additional compensation given Graterol’s long-term durability concerns.
While all three sides might ultimately figure out a new agreement that works for everyone, a trade that rocked MLB is now in danger of falling apart. Given spring training is closing in and multiple players involved have now gone through the emotions of being traded, it’s the last thing these organizations want heading into the new season.